NRA State Youth Education Summit - Texas Style

They say everything is bigger in Texas and the 2017 Texas State Youth Education Summit reflects that expression.

Launched in 2013, the Texas State Youth Education Summit is one of five states to host its own state program. At this level, the program focuses on state government and the roles the next generation of voters will play. A special emphasis is also placed on the benefits of firearms ownership – and there was plenty of that this year.

Fifteen bright and enthusiastic high school students from across the state attended the Texas program earlier this year from March 2-5.

First stop – meeting the former Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Gib Lewis at his ranch. The students were treated with a tour and a Q&A session where they discussed the legislative process and life as a politician. The group also had the unique opportunity for some range time on the Lewis ranch!

The four-day summit got even bigger. Friends of NRA National Corporate Sponsor Daniel Defense was present at the Game Warden Training Academy where students got an inside view of life as a warden, followed by a range safety lesson before participating in a Daniel Defense Training.

“We are so grateful to Daniel Defense for sharing the values, integrity, and workmanship of their rifles with us,” said NRA South Texas Field Representative Liz Foley. “The Y.E.S. students received hands-on instruction in a comfortable setting, which was an experience that will stick with them for a lifetime. It was a remarkable part of the summit.”

Other events included visiting the Texas State Capitol, interacting with state representatives, marching in the Texas Independence Day Parade, visiting The Bullock Texas State History Museum and honoring a fallen American hero, Chris Kyle, at his memorial.

Amidst a packed schedule, students had the opportunity to showcase their personality, leadership skills, and ability in public speaking as they prepare for group debates and speeches which they participate in throughout the course of the summit. Each student participating in a state program has a goal of attending the National Y.E.S. program and work extremely hard to earn that spot.

Texas’ lucky representative for the 2017 National Y.E.S program is Kaitlyn Callaway!